DRDO & IIT Delhi Unveil ABHED: Next-Gen Bulletproof Jackets

Development and Collaboration

• DRDO and IIT Delhi jointly developed ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat) lightweight bulletproof jackets.
• Created at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi.
• DIA-CoE was formed in 2022 by modifying the Joint Advanced Technology Center of DRDO at IIT Delhi.
• The project exemplifies successful collaboration between defence R&D, academia, and industry.
• Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, praised the achievement.

Technical Specifications and Materials

• ABHED jackets are made from polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material.
• Design based on high strain rate material characterization, modeling, and simulation.
• Armor plates have passed all necessary R&D trials as per protocols.
• Two variants: BIS Level 5 (8 kg) and BIS Level 6 (9.3 kg).
• Both variants are lighter than maximum weight limits specified in Indian Army requirements.
• Modular design with front and rear armors providing 360-degree protection.
• Total protection area of approximately 3,400 square centimeters.

Protection Capabilities

BIS Level 5 (8 kg) jacket features:

• • Front Hard Armor Panel (HAP) defeats 8 hardened steel core bullets from AK-47.
  • Back, sides, groin, and neck protect against SLR and AK-47 mild steel core bullets.
  • Protection against Hard Steel Core (HSC), Mild Steel Core (MSC), and SLR bullets.

BIS Level 6 (9.3 kg) jacket features:

• • Front HAP defeats 6 sniper bullets.
  • Back, sides, groin, and neck protect against SLR and AK-47 mild steel core bullets.
  • Additional protection against 7.62x54R Dragunov API ammunition.
• Both variants ensure less than 25mm Back Face Signature (BFS).

Technology Transfer and Future Implications

• DRDO has shortlisted Indian industries for Transfer of Technology (ToT).
• Three industries selected for technology transfer and handholding.
• Aligns with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, promoting indigenous production of critical defence equipment.
• Expected to enhance mobility and combat efficiency of soldiers without compromising safety.
• Reflects India's commitment to equipping soldiers with cutting-edge protective gear.
• Advances domestic manufacturing capabilities in advanced body armor solutions.